Mobile devices have become tools for communication, work, and entertainment. However, they can become targets for cyber threats like viruses and malware. If you experience issues, start by rebooting in Safe Mode to identify and remove malicious apps. You can then update the phone’s software, enable Google Play Protect, or perform a factory reset if necessary. For iOS, restart your device and clear browsing data. Both systems should be updated regularly, and a factory reset should be the last resort if issues persist. Still, if you are unable to fix the issue, then contact local cellphone repair technicians for professional assistance.
Solutions to Fix Your Android Phone Suffering Viruses Threats
Here’s how you can fix the virus threat.
Reboot in Safe Mode
Safe Mode turns off third-party apps, allowing you to identify and remove malicious software:
- Press and hold the power button.
- Tap and hold “Power off” until the “Reboot to Safe Mode” prompt appears.
- Select “OK” to reboot in Safe Mode.
- In Safe Mode, only pre-installed apps run.
If the phone runs smoothly in “Safe Mode,” the third-party apps are causing the issue and must be removed.
Identify and Uninstall Suspicious Apps
Navigate to Settings > Apps or Application Manager. Review the list of unfamiliar or recently installed apps. Select the suspicious app and tap “Uninstall.” Some apps may have device administrator rights if the “Uninstall” option is unavailable. In such cases:
- Go to Settings > Security > Device Administrators.
- Select the app’s administrator rights.
- Return to the list and uninstall the app.
Update the Operating System
Ensure your device runs the latest OS version, which includes security patches to fight against Malware, Spyware, Trojans, and ransomware. To check for updates:
- Go to Settings > About Phone > System Updates.
Activate the Google Play Protect
To activate Google Play Protect on an Android device:
- Select the Play Store icon from your home screen or app drawer.
- Then, choose your profile icon at the top right and “Play Protect.”
- Tap the settings icon (gear) at the top right, then toggle “Scan apps with Play Protect.”
This ensures your device regularly scans for harmful apps.
Perform a Factory Reset
If issues persist, consider a factory reset:
- Back up important data.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Reset > Factory Data Reset.
- Confirm the reset.
This erases all data and restores the device to its original state.
How to Remove Virus Threats from Your iPhone?
iOS devices are generally secure, but virus threats can occur, especially on jailbroken devices where manufacturers’ restrictions are removed, making them a security threat. Here are the ways you can remove virus threats:
Restart the Device
A simple restart can sometimes resolve minor issues:
- Hold the power button until you see the “slide to power off” option.
- Slide to power off.
- Once off, hold the power button to restart.
Update iOS
Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest OS version:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- If updates are available, select “Download and Install.”
Updates frequently include security fixes that tackle vulnerabilities.
Clear Browsing Data
Malicious websites can store harmful data. Here’s how you can clear the data:
- Go to Settings > Safari.
- Tap “Clear History and Website Data.”
- For other browsers, refer to their settings to clear cache and data.
Remove Suspicious Apps
Delete any unfamiliar apps:
- Press and hold the app icon.
- Tap “Remove App,” then confirm.
Perform a Factory Reset
As a last resort:
- Back up important data.
- Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Confirm the reset.
This will delete all data and return the device to its original factory settings.
Signs of a Virus-Infected Phone
Recognizing the signs of a virus-infected phone is crucial for maintaining device security. Key indicators include:
- Presence of applications the user doesn’t recall installing.
- Frequent, intrusive ads appear unexpectedly.
- Battery depletion is faster than usual without increased usage.
- The device becomes unusually warm during normal operations.
- Unexplained increases in data consumption.
- Apps take longer to load, or the device responds sluggishly.
- Contacts receive messages the user didn’t send.
How to Protect Your Phone from Future Threats?
- Create complex passwords combining letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid reusing them across multiple accounts.
- When logging in, you can enhance your security by adding a Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
- Install applications only from trusted sources, such as the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, to reduce the risk of malware.
- Avoid accessing sensitive information over unsecured public networks; use a VPN if necessary.
Read More: 11 Ways To Fix iPhone Not Connecting To WiFi
Conclusion
Dealing with a virus-infected phone can be stressful, but by taking the right repair solutions, you can regain control of your device and protect your personal information. To fix virus threats on your Android phone, reboot in Safe Mode to identify and uninstall suspicious apps, install a reputable mobile security app, and update your operating system. For iPhones, restart the device, remove unfamiliar apps, and restore from backup if necessary. You can also take preventive measures like creating strong passwords and activating two-factor authentication for enhanced security.
